THE SSP JOURNAL

Joyful, fine art wedding photography for real couples. Serving Chicago, Washington DC and beyond.
Based in South Bend, Indiana. Available for travel.

Classic Notre Dame Romance – Elise & Gabe – Notre Dame Wedding Photographer

This Notre Dame loves story begins between O’Neill and McGlinn Hall. With their dorms right beside each other, it wasn’t long before a fun date to a dorm dance turned into a lasting friendship and true love. Their faith and deep love for one another is evident in everything they do. They share so much in common and boy do they love to laugh!  ☺️

Elise and Gabe’s  wedding day was worth waiting for… 10 extra months to be exact. However it was worth it for the perfect weather and that they could celebrate with all of their amazing families and friends.

Our first stop of the day was at Embassy Suites where the guys were helping Gabe get ready.

Holy handsome Batman! 😱

Gabe and Elise both got one another “I do!” gifts. Gabe has traveled all over the world so what better gift than a leather monogramed passport holder! ✈️

Gabe’s brother Dan surprised Gabe with an autographed Notre Dame football.

As the guys went off to eat lunch, Grace and I headed to the Double Tree where the girls were getting ready. As soon as we walked in the door we started on details.

Love Elise’s blue shoes! 🙂

A little bubbly to celebrate our best gal! 🍾

The bridesmaids quickly changed into their dresses so they could help Elise into hers. The giggles were non-stop! 😆

First look with dad.

And then Elise opened her gift from Gabe. It was painting that Gabe himself had done. 🎨

This girl belongs in a magazine! 😍

Ceremony time.

 

Our readers, the Gospel and an architect pun-filled homily.

Exchanging of vows and rings. 💍

Officially married before the Lord.

Communion.

Elise and Gabe took flowers to the Virgin Mary in the Lady Chapel.

It’s official!!!

The Newlyweds!

Formal photos on the alter of the Basilica. The Gruneisen family and the Jacobs Family.

Our awesome wedding party!

Their beautiful portraits as husband and wife!

Swoon! 😍

As we exited the Basilica, all of Elise and Gabe’s guests were waiting on the steps of the Administration building to congratulate the happy couple!

Gabe’s niece Isabella was not having it. 😆

Family formals.

And now it was time for wedding party shenanigans! 🤣

These two are so gorgeous together!!!

The perfect Dome photos!

On our way to Bond Hall, we stopped at the “Talking Bench” for pictures. This particular bench was were Elise and Gabe shared many a talks during their time together and so we wanted to pay tribute to those moments on their wedding day.

Just behind the “Talking Bench” was Bond Hall where Gabe spent most of his time during school. The large steps gave us plenty of room for silliness! 😉

So intimate. ❤️

As the wedding party hopped in the bus, Elise and Gabe lite a candle in the Grotto and shared a private moment together.

The tickle bug is here! 🙃

Beautiful portraits.

Elise and Gabe hopped on the bus and the whole gang toasted in their honor. 🥂

We drove across campus to the library for more group photos. The guys were up first!

The beautiful ladies!

Epic jump shot in front of Touch Down Jesus.

And of course, a veil swoop! 😍

 

Off we all went to The Brick. The wedding party enjoyed cocktail hour as Grace and I photographed the details.

Let’s all welcome the newlyweds! 🥳

Before dinner, Gabe’s father welcomed everyone and Father Paul gave the blessing.

After a super yummy dinner, it was time to cut the cake!

Time for speeches! Dan, Gabe’s best man and older brother, started us off.

Elise’s best friend and maid of honor, Karen, told Elise that in fact, “Yes, I think he likes you.” A secret conversation I’m sure from years ago that made the whole room erupt in laughter. 😆

Finally Elise’s dad gave a heartfelt speech that required the help of a family member to get through. It was so moving.

Their first dance as husband and wife.

Parent dances. Elise and her dad were first.

Followed by Gabe and his mom.

Party time!!! 🥳

Elise and Gabe were determined to get a good picture with Isabella. It took some sweet dance moves but they got it!

Architect shot in the bar. 🥃

Our last shots of the night were all unique. First Elise and Gabe shared a very intimate moment in the lounge area.

Next I cleared out the bar for these epic moments! The mirrors make the lights go on forever!

And lastly, a quick trip outside in front of the iconic sign. They look so elegant. 🥰

To Elise and Gabe – This has been an incredible journey together! Thank you for taking me along and sharing so much about yourselves. I’m still pretty jealous of your proposal in Italy! I know the Lord has big plans for your future together and I can’t wait to hear all about it! Thank you for trusting me with your memories. All my love – S

To see their full day, click here.

Vendors:

Photography and photo booth: Sarah Sage Photography LLC

Church: Basilica of the Sacred Heart

Groom hotel: Embassy Suites by Hilton South Bend

Bride hotel: Double Tree Hotel by Hilton South Bend

HMU: Beauty and Bliss

Floral: Local Roots Floral Design

Catering: CK Catering

Venue: The Brick

DJ: Events by ProShow

Rentals: Burns Rent-Alls

Cake: C’est La Vie Cakes

Transportation: Royal Excursion

Suit: Black Tux

Dress: BHLDN Watters

 

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